Disco Lines to Ignite Exposition Park with House Music
On May 2, Disco Lines is slated to perform at Exposition Park’s South Lawn, introducing a vibrant house music experience right in the heart of the USC area. This much-anticipated event is complemented by performances from talented artists TOBEHONEST b2b MAESIC and Wes Mills, promising an electrifying atmosphere for students and faculty eager to revel in the world of electronic dance music (EDM).
A Legacy of House Music at USC
Disco Lines’ performance is part of a broader trend of house shows that have recently energized USC’s Greek Row. Last semester, big names like Acraze and Loud Luxury captivated students with DJ sets at local fraternity houses, receiving rave reviews from party-goers who cherished the infectious beats and lively atmosphere they created. These events have not only elevated the social scene but have also revived a deep-rooted connection between USC and house music.
The Pioneer of EDM Education
USC’s bond with house music is far from a recent development. In 2013, professor Sean Nye emerged as a pioneer when he introduced the course on “Electronic Dance Music Culture” — a first for the university. With EDM booming at the time, Nye’s arrival as a postdoctoral scholar coincided perfectly with the genre’s surge in popularity. After earning his PhD focused on EDM and researching the techno scene in Germany, he found support from USC’s administration for his groundbreaking class.
Nye recalls, “There was actually encouragement at the initial moment, because EDM was just so popular. Everyone was trying to figure out what was happening with this music that the community was listening to.” The class remains a cornerstone of USC’s music curriculum, providing students not only with historical knowledge of electronic music but also insights into an ever-evolving industry.
The Rise of DJ Alumni
One of Nye’s most illustrious former students is none other than DJ it’s murph, also known as Garrett Murphy. With over 2.9 million monthly listeners on Spotify, Murphy’s success story serves as a beacon for aspiring artists. His social media presence, often showcasing his roots at USC, including presentations of unreleased tracks and his energetic performances, has further solidified the Trojan connection to the EDM scene.
Highlighting the importance of guest speakers, Nye has brought various industry legends to his class, providing real-world relevance to the curriculum. “Just bringing back the curriculum to what’s happening in Los Angeles at the moment is such an opportunity for students,” Nye appreciates.
Student Perspectives on the EDM Course
Sophomore PR major Miles Katz, who took Nye’s course in 2024, described it as “fascinating.” He entered the class with limited knowledge of electronic music and emerged with a broad understanding of its various epochs and sub-genres. “It was just cool to be able to learn about such a broad genre of music, especially because I didn’t realize how diverse it really was,” Katz stated, underscoring the value of learning from professional DJs who shared insights from their careers.
Building Community Around EDM
Among USC’s alumni, many have successfully transitioned into the EDM scene. Josh Legg, who graduated in 2010 and now performs under the name Goldroom, has garnered acclaim, including a performance at Coachella in 2016 and an impressive following with over 200,000 Spotify listeners. Legg highlighted a sense of camaraderie among USC graduates in the industry. “If I go to a festival and see Dr. Fresch, Justin Jay, or the Louis the Child guys, there’s definitely a bit of a fraternity among us Trojans,” he shared.
Another prominent figure is Joseph Nguyen, known as Potion, who, alongside friends from his Marshall School of Business cohort, founded House & Techno — a student organization that today boasts over 300 members. Potion aimed to create a structured platform for students passionate about electronic music. “I wanted to build something that connected people, not just socially, but also creatively and professionally,” he explained.
Professional Opportunities and Community Engagement
Potion’s efforts in establishing House & Techno, in collaboration with the Electronic Dance Music Association (EDMASC), have resulted in a thriving community at USC. The organization hosts workshops, open decks, and DJ competitions, allowing students to explore avenues in the music industry. This initiative not only provides a space for social interaction but also encourages professional growth in the EDM realm.
Both Potion and Legg noted the significant role that initial parties and events play in shaping future industry professionals. “The pipeline starts all the way at the social events, but then once people leave USC, they start to turn their production DJ projects into real artist projects,” Legg remarked, emphasizing how these grassroots experiences forge pathways into the broader industry.
The Intersection of Music and Identity at USC
USC’s proximity to cultural landmarks, such as the Shrine Auditorium, plays a crucial role in fueling the university’s connection to the music scene. As Nye pointed out, the first massive rave, Stranger Than Fiction, took place in 1990 at the Shrine, drawing early attention to the intersection of music and vibrant campus life.
In a city like Los Angeles, where arts and culture thrive, Potion articulated the essence of USC’s unique blend of music, community, and identity. “There’s a strong emphasis on shared experience, and that creates a level of connection that’s much different from any other university campus,” he emphasized, celebrating the rich electronic music culture that continues to resonate within the Trojan community.
As Disco Lines prepares to take the stage, the fusion of DJ culture and academic inquiry reflects an ongoing legacy of house music at USC that not only entertains but also inspires and educates the next generation of music enthusiasts and professionals.
